Correlations Between Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) and the Endocrine System

Abstract

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare, degenerative brain disorder caused by abnormal proteins referred to as “prions'' that accumulate in one’s brain. This life-threatening disease leads to individuals contracting symptoms such as memory loss, personality changes, and impaired judgment. As the disease progresses, the body starts experiencing blindness, weakness, and involuntary movements that typically lead to death within six to eight months. There are three primary divisions: Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD), Familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (fCJD), and Acquired Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (aCJD). 

This is the first study to explore and recognize the correlation of CJD on the human body's endocrine system. By analyzing MRI scans and plotting data to create graphs, the research team has identified notable disruptions in the normal secretion of hormones from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This shows significant implications for the reproductive health, metabolic function, and overall endocrine balance of affected individuals. Specifically, the disease can result in delayed or altered puberty, infertility, and metabolic dysfunction. 

Upon discovering this pattern, the study moved forward with a focus on what factors are contributing to the disruptions in hormone secretion. The research team then created a simulation using Python code to model trends associated with current CJD cases and predicted several variables in the succeeding years. They compared the trends that were modeled to the new trends associated with implementing our potential methods for mitigating CJD.